As marriage mentors, Sharon and I have witnessed couples that had some pretty toxic patterns of communication. Their discussions were dominated by insults, accusations, put-downs, sarcasm, and contempt for each other. In fact, we would have to encourage them to find good things to say to each other. While that may be an extreme example, most of us—including Sharon and [...]
by Sharon Peterson Do you want to feel more connected to your spouse? Try praying together on a consistent basis. Russ and I don’t have a set time to pray each week but we do pray together often. It really makes us feel closer to each other and to God. When you pray together it will unite your spirits, which [...]
Here in the midwest, we have been experiencing a colder-than-average winter—some days setting new records for cold. February's bleak and dreary weather has little to offer with the exception of two things—the Super Bowl (and the parties that come with it), and Valentine's Day. And since connecting marriage and the Super Bowl would be a stretch, even for me, let's [...]
Anyone who knows me well, knows I’m not a big fan of resolutions—at least not the New Year variety. Usually, I tend to follow through on resolutions when I am convinced—or convicted by the Holy Spirit—that I need to make a change, not simply because a new year is starting. That said, the new year seems like a good time [...]
By Eva Marie Everson With one question I opened Pandora's Box. "What, if anything," I asked my husband, "could I change about me to make you happier?" It wasn't that we were unhappy or that I perceived he was unhappy. But after nearly 25 years together, it doesn't take a rocket scientist to realize that while we may adjust to [...]
Last month we talked about developing and maintaining healthy communication as you parent your kids. The skills you learn to communicate in respectful, honoring ways will come in handy when you need to resolve your conflicts. Healthy communication and conflict resolution are really two sides of the same coin. They work together to create a marriage of love, trust, [...]
Spring seems to be just around the corner. Last weekend, here in Colorado Springs we were in the '60s and the birds were singing their songs to announce that Winter's hold is coming to an end and the new birth of Spring is nearly upon us. Alas, in Colorado Springs that is only partly true. Here, we [...]
In case you weren't aware, today is Groundhog Day. If you've ever seen the movie "Groundhog Day" starring Bill Murray, you know that he is a TV weather reporter covering the Groundhog Day festivities in Punxsutawney, PA. The problem is, every day he wakes up, he finds himself re-living the same day over and over again. Maybe you've felt [...]
Happy New Year! For many, the start of a new year holds the promise of fresh starts and new beginnings—a chance to hit the reset button, to get a do-over. Resolutions are sincerely made but seldom kept. Old patterns find their way back into our routines. The best of intentions get sidelined by the challenges and busyness of life. [...]
This month's post is from the author of the book, Love & Respect, Emerson Eggerichs. We read this book a few years back and also attended one of the Love & Respect conferences when it came to our area. This book had a dramatic impact on our lives and marriage. It contains some simple, but powerful truths that transformed how [...]
